This is obviously not a good sign, but is it conclusive proof that you are, in fact, addicted to drugs or alcohol?

The short answer is no. Everyone has their own idea of what constitutes addiction. Drinking to excess at a family wedding might make your significant other think you have a problem. Meanwhile, your teetotaler sister might think the nightly glass of wine you have with dinner is a sign of trouble.

But here’s the thing: If someone you love thinks you have a problem, they may have good reason to believe that. Rather than get defensive, take your loved one’s concern as a cue to ask yourself a few very important questions.

So Do I Have a Problem?

At the heart of the matter is this question: Can you control your drinking or drug use? Or do you continue using despite negative consequences?

When it comes to alcohol, it’s helpful to think of addiction as a continuum. You don’t need to get the shakes or a DUI to have a significant problem that should be addressed. This self-assessment by the National Institutes of Health can help you discover what level of risk you’re at.

Drug addiction is more complicated. Someone who uses heroin or cocaine twice a year may not be addicted, but there’s still plenty of reason for a loved one to be concerned. First of all, addiction can happen very quickly with illicit drugs and, sadly, so can overdose and death.

Family and Substance Abuse

Addiction is a family disease that affects your spouse, parents and children. The good news is that addiction is also a disease that can be successfully treated. Your past is not your destiny. You can have a sober future but, even more importantly, you can have a good future.

Substance Abuse Treatment at The Raleigh House

The Raleigh House is a residential treatment center located in Denver that believes addiction isn’t just a physical problem. Our master’s level trained therapists get to the root cause of addiction and will help you develop a strategy to manage and enjoy life without drugs or alcohol. Fill out our form or contact us today to learn more about our 90-day drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs.